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Everyone needs a pick-me-up now and then, and a spa treatment is the ideal way to recharge flagging bodies and minds. MiNDFOOD has searched the country to select the most effective, luxurious and soul-restoring therapies New Zealand has to offer. Whether it’s a week-long retreat or just a lunchtime tonic, there’s something to suit you.

Lakeside sanctuary

Nestled on the edge of Government Gardens â€¨and just two blocks away from Fenton Street, one â€¨of Rotoruaâ€™s main thoroughfares, Polynesian Spacould hardly be more centrally located.

Step through the doors, though, and a world of natural beauty and relaxation awaits. While its faÃ§ade faces the city, the spa complex is â€¨set on the shores of Lake Rotorua, and visitors coming for one or more of the many therapies are encouraged to arrive an hour before their appointment time to unwind in a series of outdoor thermal mineral pools.

Heated at increments of two degrees (from 36 to 42ËšC), these shallow rock pools have stunning views across the lake, and birds soar overhead on their way to the nearby wildlife sanctuary. Private, child-free and a family pool are among the other options on offer for bathers.

As the festive season starts to ramp up, our peepers often pay the price. Unwanted dark circles aside, since the delicate skin surrounding our peepers is ten times thinner than the rest of our face,they also happen the be the first areas to reveal fine lines. Â This super trio of youth-restoring wonders will keep your peepers looking perky around the clock.

Super Eye Serum ($140)by Swedish beauty house Verso harnesses the power of potent amino acids to protect and repair the delicate eye area. Muradâ€™s will give your eyes a serious lift without leaving home. The Professional Eye Lift Firming Treatment ($140) uses a hyaluronic acid-rich formula to lift, firm and tighten. Lightweight Benefit Firm it Up eye serum ($66) absorbs in a few seconds to provide instant hydration, revive and brighten.